It’s not unusual for people to travel to Hong Kong whose main purpose is to spend quality time with their kids and family. And you will see why, the city is jam-packed with fun and family-friendly activities.
Go on Exciting Rides
What better way to explore the city than traveling with the kids on iconic rides? Not only will it make your journey more memorable and fun, your children can also learn about the city’s history and enjoy some stunning views along the way.
1. Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car
Ngong Ping 360 is a cable car located in Tung Chung and is highly recommended for those visiting Ngong Ping Village, home to famous attractions such as the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery in Hong Kong.
This is also the fastest and most enjoyable way to travel, providing an exciting ride for the kids as it is one of the best cable cars in the world.
You can choose between Standard and Crystal (glass-bottom) cabins. The former is more affordable, but if you or the kids are not afraid of heights, consider taking the crystal cabin. During the approximately 25-minute ride, you can look through the bottom of the car, giving you a more immersive view of Lantau Island.
A round-trip ticket is cheaper than a one-way journey. For adults and kids aged 3-11, round-trip Crystal cabin price is HK$315 and HK$190 respectively, while a single trip is HK$200 and HK$115. Or, you can experience both cabins for HK$275 (adults) and HK$150 (kids) round trip by using the Standard and Crystal cabins.
2. The Peak Tram
One of the top tourist attractions in Hong Kong is The Peak, and the most recommended way to reach it is by taking the Peak Tram. It offers spectacular views of Victoria Harbour and kids will be excited to ride it. The thrilling ride is so steep that the buildings look as if they are slanted.
3. Ding Ding Tram
Exploring the city with kids can be tiring, but the Ding Ding Tram is a great and inexpensive option for discovering Hong Kong Island. For just HK$3, the tram takes you through the major roads of Central, Wan Chai, and Causeway Bay, making it easy to get around. Moreover, this historic mode of transport offers an opportunity for kids to experience the city’s rich history.
4. Star Ferry
Star Ferry is a historical transportation option that connects the Kowloon Peninsula to Hong Kong Island. Not only is it a convenient way to cross the harbor, but it’s also an enjoyable and novel experience. Compared to taking the MTR where you have to go underground, you can breathe in the fresh ocean air and admire the stunning Hong Kong skyline.
The ride typically lasts between 6-12 minutes and operates frequently throughout the day. You can catch the ferry at Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier, Central Pier No. 7, or Wan Chai Ferry Pier.
For the best view, it’s recommended to purchase a ticket for the upper deck, which is slightly more expensive but is quieter and you can avoid the fume below.
5. Hong Kong Junk Boat
If you’re looking for a comfortable and luxurious way to cross the harbour, consider taking a Hong Kong Junk Boat. You’ll immediately notice the boat’s iconic red flag and shape, which are often featured in travel advertisements for Hong Kong. One of the newer options is Aqua Luna.
There are several tour options available, including afternoon and dim sum, sunset, and night tours. The afternoon tour is perfect if you want to take your kids to lunch, as there’s a dim sum add-on that you can enjoy on board. The night tour is great if you plan to take your kids to the Symphony of Lights show, which can be crowded if you watch it from the harbour.
6. Sky100 Observation Deck
Looking for an indoor activity that allows you to explore the city with your kids? Consider visiting Sky100. Located within Hong Kong’s tallest building, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and point out various landmarks to your kids. Additionally, it’s conveniently connected to Elements shopping mall, where your kids can take a break and grab a bite to eat. However, it’s important to check the weather before purchasing tickets, as visibility may be limited on foggy days.
7. Hong Kong Observation Wheel
Located next to the Star Ferry Pier in Central, you can find the only Ferris wheel in the city that provides a stunning view of Victoria Harbour. The ride is affordable, costing just HK$20 for adults and HK$15 for kids for a duration of approximately 15 minutes. Additionally, the park has a carousel that you can enjoy with your family and an open space with artificial grass for the kids to run around.
8. Pink Dolphin Watching
The Pink Dolphin is a rare species that is at risk of becoming extinct and it can be spotted in the vicinity of Lantau Island. If you want to catch a glimpse of one, you should visit Tai O, which is easily accessible from Ngong Ping Village by bus within 10-15 minutes.
These dolphins are active throughout the year and you can buy tickets on-site for approximately HK$20-40 per person. Alternatively, you can opt for the Tai O 360 pass, which offers a boat excursion, a round trip on the Ngong Ping Cable Car, bus transportation to Tai O, and a Tai O meal voucher at a discounted price.
Create Memories at Theme Parks
Hong Kong is home to world-class and famous theme parks that your kids and family will love.
9. Hong Kong Disneyland
Hong Kong Disneyland is a magical place to visit, with seven different themed zones to explore. It may be smaller than the Disneyland in Japan, but it still has plenty of attractions to enjoy, and the wait times are generally shorter. While it can get crowded, weekdays are generally less busy.
It’s a good idea to bring umbrellas and water, as the weather can be hot or rainy. Fans of Frozen and Marvel can look forward to new zones opening in late 2023 and 2024. At night, be sure to check out the fireworks and the parade, both of which are great.
10. Noah’s Ark
For a fun and educational experience with the family, consider visiting Noah’s Ark in Ma Wan. The park’s main attraction is a life-size replica of the ark, which houses a garden, adventure land, and a multi-sensory exhibition. Tickets are quite affordable, and it’s a great way to spend a day together.
11. Ocean Park
If you’re looking for a water-themed park in southern Hong Kong Island, Ocean Park is the perfect destination. This spot is ideal if your kids love to play in water playgrounds, enjoy seeing animals, or if you prefer less crowded places. Unlike Disneyland, Ocean Park has fewer crowds due to its distance from the city center.
The park is divided into two parts: the lower level and upper level, which are connected by a sky tram and cable car. The Waterfront (lower area) near the entrance has attractions such as the Panda Village, The Grand Aquarium, and a playground for younger kids called Whisker Harbour. The Summit (upper area) has rides for older kids, sea lions, sharks, arctic fox, and other exciting attractions.
It’s important to note that Ocean Park is closed every Tuesday. You can visit their website to check the latest schedule. When planning your visit, keep in mind that Ocean Park is a great place to spend a fun-filled day with family and friends.
12. LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Hong Kong
If you or your kids are fans of LEGO®, you won’t want to miss this experience. Tickets cost around HK$250 and inside you’ll find over 1.5 million LEGO® bricks used to create replicas of Hong Kong’s top attractions and landmarks. Plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring with your children. Additionally, there’s a restaurant on site where you can wait and let your children play.
13. Monopoly Dreams
The first-ever MONOPOLY-themed attraction in the world is located inside Peak Galleria Mall. Though the place is quite small, you can finish the visit within 30 to 45 minutes. Additionally, board games are available, making it an excellent option if you have extra time and your kids love Monopoly.
Visit Iconic Places
A trip to Hong Kong is not complete without a visit to its most iconic locations. Even if you don’t have much time in Hong Kong, you should definitely visit at least two of these places and your family will still have a memorable trip.
14. The Peak
If you see images of Hong Kong on the internet or any advertisement, most of them are taken from The Peak or Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. However, these images cannot do justice to the actual experience of being there in person.
The Peak is a hill located on Hong Kong Island that features a high-end residential area and is a popular tourist destination. There are shopping malls, restaurants, and the first MONOPOLY-themed attraction in the world. From up above, you can get an amazing aerial view of Hong Kong.
There are numerous spots from which to enjoy the breathtaking city view. The Sky Terrace atop The Peak Tower is the highest point, but admission is not free. The Lion’s Rock is located right beside it, but the space is quite limited and tends to get crowded. Alternatively, you can hike to the nearby Lugard Road to get a panoramic view of Victoria Harbour.
You can reach The Peak by hiking, taking a bus or taxi. But I recommend taking your family on the thrilling Peak Tram ride at least once.
15. Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade (Victoria Harbour)
Here is a spot where you can witness another iconic view of Hong Kong. You’ll see a striking contrast between a row of tall skyscrapers against the backdrop of the sea and The Peak mountain. Along the promenade, you can find the Hong Kong Space Museum, a great place for your kids to enjoy a fun and educational experience. Additionally, the K11 MUSEA shopping mall is a highly artistic venue where you can cool off and take a break from the heat.
16. Ngong Ping Village (and Big Buddha)
When you take the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, you’ll arrive at Ngong Ping Village, a small tourist destination. The highlight of the village is the large bronze Buddha statue. Although climbing the 268 stairs to reach the base may be tiring, it’s worth it to get up close to the statue and enjoy the rewarding view from above. You can visit the nearby Po Lin Monastery to try some delicious vegetarian food and desserts.
In the village itself, your kids can participate in an interactive experience about the cable car at the Cable Car Discovery Centre and learn more about Lantau through a 5D experience. You can also take part in a chocolate-making and tasting activity. Additionally, there’s a multimedia exhibit called “Walking with Buddha,” which tells the story of the Buddha’s history, though it is currently closed.
Have Fun at the Beaches
There are plenty of beaches in Hong Kong that are relatively clean and easy to access. It’s a great and cost-effective way to spend outdoor time or picnic with your family.
17. Silvermine Bay Beach
Mui Wo’s Silvermine Bay is easily accessible from Central via Star Ferry. The beach is beautiful, clean, and has restaurants. It is a peaceful beach with relatively clean sand and water, making it great to visit with your family.
18. Shek O Beach
There is a stunning and well-maintained beach situated in Shek O Village on the southeast side of Hong Kong Island. It’s an ideal spot for barbecuing, and the beach offers clean washrooms and shower facilities. Transportation to Shek O is available via bus or van, and there are various local stores and restaurants near the beach.
19. Stanley Beach
If you want to enjoy the annual Dragon Boat Races and the beach, head to Stanley Beach. The race is hosted annually sometime around June, so expect more crowds during that time. It’s also a great spot for BBQs. Stanley Beach is located west of Shek O in the southern part of Hong Kong Island.
Recharge at the Shopping Malls
HK can be hot at times and may be tiring from all those walks, so you can stay indoors, grab some food, change diapers if you have a baby, etc. Let’s explore some of the most famous ones.
Hong Kong can get quite hot and tiring with all the walking, especially if you bring the kids. So it’s a good idea to take a break indoors. You can let the kids rest, grab a bite to eat, or change your toddler’s diapers. Now, let’s take a look at some of the most popular and iconic shopping centers.
20. K11 MUSEA
K11 MUSEA, also referred to as the ‘Silicon Valley of Culture’, is not your typical shopping mall. The mall’s modern and distinctive interior is sure to catch your eye. Additionally, your children can have a blast playing on the rooftop slide.
21. HarbourCity
Harbour City is the biggest shopping mall in Hong Kong, with over 450 stores, 70 food options, and numerous entertainment venues. It is situated near the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier, making it a convenient spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Ocean Terminal Deck for a breathtaking 270-degree view of Victoria Harbour. This public area is quite spacious and definitely worth a visit.
22. Times Square
Times Square Hong Kong is a must-visit destination for tourists and shoppers alike. It is the largest shopping mall in the district, with over 230 stores offering a diverse range of products. The mall has many Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Western restaurants, providing a delightful culinary experience. Additionally, visitors can enjoy exciting exhibitions, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Accessing Times Square is easy, as it is directly connected to the MTR Causeway Bay Station.
Learn and Play at the Museums & Library
Museums can be a great way to spend time indoors and let kids have fun while learning. Fortunately, Hong Kong is home to some really amazing museums and they’re all quite affordable. Some are even free if you come on Wednesdays.
23. Hong Kong Science Museums
The Hong Kong Science Museum offers a fun and interactive way to learn through its exhibits. If you have children who dislike physics, chemistry, or biology, visiting this museum may be a great opportunity to spark their interest. Be sure to explore the Energy Machine, a large suspended DC-3 airplane, and the World of Mirrors, which will test your understanding of light and reflection. Additionally, the Mathematics exhibition features intriguing puzzles.
24. Hong Kong Museum of History
The Hong Kong Museum of History, situated in Tsim Sha Tsui East, provides a comprehensive understanding of the city’s history. Its permanent exhibit, “The Hong Kong Story,” delves into the city’s past and culture spanning millions of years. However, at present, the museum is undergoing renovation, and many of the exhibits are currently simplified. Admission to the permanent exhibition is free.
25. Hong Kong Space Museum
If your children have a fascination with space, you should definitely check out this museum. It’s situated near the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Victoria Harbour and features two permanent exhibits: the Hall of the Cosmos and the Hall of Space Exploration. The displays in both halls are highly interactive, making for an entertaining and educational experience. The admission fee is only HK$10, so it’s definitely worth a visit. For a modest admission fee of HK$10, it’s worth a visit.
26. Tai Kwun
Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts is an acclaimed location that received recognition from UNESCO for its Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2019. Featuring 16 restored buildings, you can explore remnants of Hong Kong’s history, including a prison, police museums, and a courtroom. You can have a fun and educational trip while learning about the city’s past. Best of all, admission to the site is free of charge.
27. Hong Kong Central Library
Just south of Victoria Park, you can find the Hong Kong Central Library, which is the largest public library in the city. The library has 10 floors, each with its own unique theme. You can enjoy facilities like internet connections, chargers, and water fountains, which are perfect for those who need to take a break and cool down. Additionally, you can go to the upper floors for an amazing view of Victoria Harbour.
If you’re traveling with kids aged 8 or below, you can also visit the Toy Library, a spacious read-and-play area on the second floor. Just remember to reserve a spot either in person or four days before your visit.
Enjoy Hong Kong Snacks
If your children are fussy eaters, don’t fret – Hong Kong has a variety of local and familiar snacks that they will enjoy.
28. Egg Waffles
Hong Kong waffles have a mildly sweet flavor and there are many variations of it. Some popular stores that you can try are Mammy Pancake, Lee Keung Kee, and Oddie’s, especially if you’d like to try one wrapped around soft-serve gelato. Other local must-tries that your kids may enjoy are pineapple buns, Hong Kong toast, wonton noodle soup, and egg tarts.
29. Character Dim Sum
Want to try a popular Hong Kong delicacy that will make your kids want more? Look out for a dim sum that is made to look like popular characters. There are several restaurants that serve them like Yum Cha and Dim Sum Icon.
30. Mister Softee Ice Cream
Make sure not to overlook the ice cream truck that locals love, especially since children will adore it too. Keep an eye out for the white, red, and blue ice cream trucks cruising the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok, Central, and other frequently visited tourist destinations, indicated by their signature blue danube melody.
Spend the Evening at Kids-Friendly Promenades
Hong Kong is famous for its Victoria Harbour view, but did you know that there are many vibrant promenades along it for you to relax while enjoying the view? They are also perfect for outdoor activities for all ages, including kids.
31. West Kowloon Art Park
Want to have a picnic with your kids and enjoy the harbor? Head to the Art Park in West Kowloon Cultural District. You can explore seasonal open-air exhibits, visit museums for a fee, or simply stroll along the beautifully landscaped gardens.
32. Belcher Bay Promenade
This is a great spot for kids, skateboarders, and pet lovers! Belcher Bay has more playgrounds than other promenades, which is why families in the area love it. This bay is situated in the residential neighborhood of Kennedy Town where you can watch the sunset.
33. East Coast Park Precinct
The East Coast Park Precinct is a lively promenade situated in Fortress Hill, Causeway Bay. It features a spacious open area where you can let the kids play around. Is also a great spot for bike rides and skateboarding. Furthermore, the park has a distinctively shaped and sizeable vent shaft that provides a striking but harmonious view of the harbour, especially at sunset.
34. Pedal Boat
Looking for a fun time while taking in the stunning view of Victoria Harbour? Head over to the Water Sports and Recreation Precinct in Wan Chai, where you can rent a pedal boat for a 45-minute ride. Prices start at HK$200 for a 2-person paddle boat and HK$280 for a 4-person paddle boat. It’s best to book in advance to secure your boat and possibly receive special discounts, but you can also book on the spot.
Stroll the Parks
If you prefer outdoor activities with more greeneries, you may be surprised to find that Hong Kong has many beautiful public gardens despite being one of the densest cities in the world. They are a great spot to have a picnic or wander around with your family.
35. Nan Lian Garden
The Nan Lian Garden located in Diamond Hill is a magnificent example of traditional Chinese landscaping, designed in the style of the Tang Dynasty. The garden has well-maintained plants, water features, and traditional architecture. Additionally, the Chi Lin Nunnery, a remarkable Buddhist temple complex, is located adjacent to the garden and is certainly worth visiting.
36. Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens
The Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens is the oldest park in the region. It houses a variety of interesting animals such as orangutans, Hawaiian geese, elongated tortoises, and more. The garden is situated in Albany Road, Mid-Levels and admission is free.
37. Edward Youde Aviary at Hong Kong Park
If you have some spare time, Hong Kong Park is definitely worth a visit as it is one of the biggest parks in the city. Be sure to check out the Edward Youde Aviary where you can spot over 550 stunning and exotic birds while walking on a raised pathway. Please keep in mind that the walkway is currently not accessible due to renovations until December 31, 2023.
38. Victoria Park
Victoria Park, located on Hong Kong Island, is the biggest park in the area. The park offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city, with its lush greenery, plenty of seating areas, and sports facilities. You can enjoy the soothing sounds of chirping birds while admiring the beautiful plants.